Business casual has gone mainstream. The next time you are taking an informal group photograph, you may want to consider dressing up a bit.
The industry has moved on quite a bit since the first attempt at Daily Casual was made way back in the ’80s. Instead of looking conservative and boring, business casual is often seen as an answer to a look that is bright, fresh, and fun. Of course, many businesses still dress up for the occasion, but the industry is a lot more casual than it was in years past. From casual polo shirts and casual skirts to sky-high slacks and beanies, the industry has moved away from a strict conservative outlook towards an open, and sometimes even eclectic style.
Casual looks can often be attributed to fashion trends, where even the smallest details in clothing are seen as significant when the wearer is trying to fit in with a certain look. While traditional business clothing such as ties or dress pants are still needed, there is a relaxed and often less formal style that can be worn. This is often attributed to the fact that it is often seen as necessary for a new executive to present themselves in a casual manner. In the past, a man with ties would be seen as overbearing and unprofessional.
Something as simple as a color palette can also play a role in this casual look. Dark colors are often considered business casual, but lighter colors can look quite casual. In this case, it’s often easy to decide if a person is going to be too business or if they need to tone it down a bit. This is especially true in the world of corporate work wear, where being too dressed up or too casual can mean the difference between being a success or a failure.
Another thing that can help a person succeed in business, while still maintaining a professional fashion sense, is their attitude. Many times, if someone is business casual, they may get away with things that other people might not be comfortable with. It’s important to remember that casual doesn’t always mean unprofessional. In some cases, it can be a sign of respect and a style that are a result of personal taste.
Appearance can play a part in this casual look as well. As soon as a person starts looking better, they can move on to dressing more formally. This is just one more way that casual can be worn within a business setting.
The last thing to remember is that there is no right or wrong way to dress in a business environment. What works for a CEO in a boardroom may not work for a receptionist. Likewise, people within the company may not necessarily be comfortable wearing this casual clothing. They may have a different view on how it should be worn than a manager.
The key is to understand the casual clothing and how it fits into a business setting. Don’t let the rules you have imposed on yourself when dressed up get in the way of you doing what is best for your company.
